One of Memphis’ most successful female CEOs endorses Mentoring Monday

Memphis Business Journal March 18th, 2015

Five years ago, I started Clarion Security from the ground up with one employee and no customers. Although I had extensive prior business experience, I had taken a break from my career to raise my children for seven years. Once I switched into business startup mode, it was time to build my network of mentors, peers and business advocates. I knew this was vital to the success of my venture.

I quickly found that Memphis has a rich fabric of mentor and advocacy groups. State and national entities offer tremendous resources through the SCORE Association, as well as various programming from the U.S. Small Business Association. My entire business plan and modeling projections were produced from the State of Tennessee's website resources.

Clarion Security's three-year strategic plan is comprehensive and detailed, courtesy of the Emerging Leaders SBA program. My first stop in business was with the Mid-South Minority Business Council Continuum to certify my business and connect with corporate partners to help propel my success. My next stop was with the Society of Entrepreneurs, who matched me with peers and mentors to encourage and coach my business. It is true now, more than ever, that the bountiful supply of resources in Memphis for entrepreneurs and business leaders continues to grow. I wouldn't be the largest woman-owned business in Memphis, with 425 employees and 88 customers five years later, without these resources.

Click here to read the full article from the Memphis Business Journal.